Using the Menus ...........................................................................................................................28 The Main Menu...............................................................................................................28 Information .....................................................................................................................29 Parental Control .............................................................................................................30 Service Blocking .............................................................................................................

33 Language Options ..........................................................................................................36 Mail Messages ...............................................................................................................36 Colours and Transparency .............................................................................................37 Information Display Period .............................................................................................38 Advanced Options ..........................................................................................................38 TV Installation .................................................................................................39 Audio Output ...................................................................................................39 Local Time ......................................................................................................40 Software Upgrade ..........................................................................................41 Software Downloads ....................................................................................................................41 Factory Reset 42

General Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................43 Specications ...............................................................................................................................45 Contact Details .............................................................................................................................46 MultiChoice Decoder Related Suggestions ...............................................................................46

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

WELCOME
Congratulations on purchasing the MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder! At MultiChoice we pride ourselves in making your enjoyment of home entertainment our priority. We continuously strive to provide you, our valued subscriber, with exceptional MultiChoice Pay-TV services at the cutting edge of technology. We welcome you to the MultiChoice family and wish you many hours of exciting entertainment.

SAFETY
The MultiChoice 990 decoder meets International Safety Standards. Please read the following recommended safety precautions carefully. MAINS SUPPLY Do not connect to DC mains. Connect the power cord to the decoder before connecting the other end into the power outlet. The decoder operates within the range of 85 288 V AD 47 ~ 63 Hz power supply only. Disconnect the decoder from the power outlet before connecting or disconnecting it from any other equipment. LIQUIDS AND SPILLAGE Keep liquids away from the decoder. Do not put anything on top of the decoder which may spill (eg. lit candles or containers of liquid). Do not use or store the decoder in extreme temperature or humidity. CLEANING Disconnect the decoder from the mains and then use a dry cloth to clean the exterior. VENTILATION Do not block the ventilation holes. Ensure that free airow is maintained around the decoder. Never stand the decoder on soft furnishings or carpet. Do not use or store the decoder near a heater or where it exposed to direct sunlight. Never stack other electronic equipment on top of the decoder. Never push or insert anything into the holes, slots or any other opening in the decoder casing. SERVICING You should never remove the cover of the decoder. Do not attempt to service the decoder yourself. Any attempt to do so will invalidate the warranty. Refer all service issues to a MultiChoice Agent or Branch. LIGHTNING If the decoder is installed in an area subject to intense lightning activity, protection devices for the decoder mains connector are recommended. EARTHING The earthing system must comply with local regulations.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

IMPORTANT NOTICE TO THE PURCHASER OF A MULTICHOICE DECODER : LEGAL MATTERS

INTRODUCTION This decoder is designed, manufactured and sold to receive MultiChoice services only. It will therefore not be fully functional unless it is used with an enabled MultiChoice Smartcard, deployed within the MultiChoice broadcast footprints, and installed so as to receive the MultiChoice signal. MultiChoice is entitled to amend the software incorporated in the decoder from time to time by means of software downloads for a number of reasons, including preventing the MultiChoice decoder from being used to receive services other than MultiChoice services. DIY INSTALLATIONS DISCLAIMER The various congurations as explained and proposed in the manual cannot make provision for the specic requirements of all equipment (consumer electronic products) and different congurations thereof. A MultiChoice Accredited Installer or the supplier of the specic equipment should be consulted if any doubts exist when doing an installation. INSTALLATION INDEMNITY Installation procedures for satellite dishes are outside the scope of this manual. Please refer to the manuals provided with your satellite dish and associated consumer electronic products if you decide to do the installation yourself. For the MultiChoice decoder to operate correctly, the satellite dish and LNB must be correctly aligned. Each and every installer acts as an independent contractor and is not an employee , subcontractor or agent of the manufacturer or MultiChoice. The manufacturer and MultiChoice are therefore not liable for any loss or damage of any nature whatsoever caused by the conduct of the installer, included but not limited to: any direct, indirect or consequential damages of any nature or any loss of prot or other special damages of any nature which the user may suffer as a result of any breach by the installer of any of its obligations to the user. any loss or damage to any property of the user or any third party, situated on the users premises, as a result of an act or omission on the part of the installer. the manufacturer and MultiChoice do not directly or indirectly warrant or guarantee or make any representations whatsoever with regards to any equipment, including, but not limited to, any satellite dish, LNB, or cabling used by the installer. Subject to any express warranty or guarantee given by the manufacturer or MultiChoice, in writing, the manufacturer and MultiChoice do not : give any warranty or guarantee or make any representation whatsoever in respect of any work carried out by the installer. accept any liability for any latent or other defects in any work carried out by the installer. MultiChoice will not be held responsible for any damage resulting from installations, whether by its Branches, Agents, Installers, through do-it-yourself or through incorrect usage of equipment. 4 MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

SOFTWARE UPDATE DISCLAIMER Due to future software downloads (see page 41), the menus and information in this manual may differ from those that your MultiChoice decoder will display after each upgrade. All queries in this regard should be referred to your nearest MultiChoice Agent, Branch or Call Centre.

PRODUCT WARRANTY
The manufacturer and MultiChoice warrant that the decoder will be free from defects in design, materials and workmanship for a period of 12 months from the date of sale of the MultiChoice decoder to the consumer. This warranty will not apply in the event of: the decoder being tampered with or being opened, worked on, repaired or modied, except by a MultiChoice Agent or Branch. the decoder not being installed or used in accordance with the manufacturers specications. malfunctioning or damage caused by the use of the decoder in conjunction with equipment or Smartcards not supplied by the manufacturer or MultiChoice. the decoder being used to receive other services, other than MultiChoice services.

In the event of the MultiChoice decoder not functioning, contact a MultiChoice Agent, Branch or Call Centre. The manufacturer or MultiChoice, at their sole discretion, will repair or replace the MultiChoice decoder which is not functioning and which is taken to a MultiChoice Agent or Branch within 12 months from the date of sale of the new MultiChoice decoder to the consumer. Any repairs made in these rst 12 months must be made by a MultiChoice Agent or Branch. In order to rely on this warranty certicate, this certicate, plus the original purchase receipt showing the date of purchase of the new MultiChoice decoder, must be provided to the MultiChoice Agent or Branch to whom the MultiChoice decoder is taken. DISCLAIMER Other than set out in this manual, the manufacturer and MultiChoice make no warranties, either expressed or implied, and including, but not limited to, implied warranties of merchantability and tness of the MultiChoice decoder for a particular purpose. This extends to the hardware, software, this manual and any other written materials accompanying the MultiChoice decoder at the time of its sale. The manufacturer and MultiChoice specically make no warranties, expressed or implied, that the MultiChoice decoder is capable, or in the future, will be capable, of receiving services other than MultiChoice services. Despite anything to the contrary, and except for the above-mentioned remedy in relation to the MultiChoice decoder which does not function during the period covered by this warranty certicate, the manufacturer and MultiChoice will bear no liability whatsoever, whether in contracts, delict or otherwise, for injury, loss or damage, including any loss of business prots or any other consequential damages arising out of the installation, use or operation of the MultiChoice decoder or any defect therein.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

UNPACKING
The following items are included with the MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder.

REMOTE CONTROL

2 x AA BATTERIES

RCA to RCA cable

POWER CABLE

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR MULTICHOICE 990 DECODER

FRONT PANEL

Alternates between Standby and On.

TV

Switches between MultiChoice TV services and Audio services. & TV When pressed together, resets the decoder. Programme Down - changes to the previous channel. Programme Up - changes to the next channel. Volume Down - decreases the volume. Volume Up - increases the volume. When pressed together, mutes the volume of the decoder.

PP+ VV+ V- & V+

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

FRONT PANEL DISPLAY

08:00 4 4 i i
REAR PANEL

24 hour clock displayed only when the decoder is in standby mode. Number Video channel 4 selected.

---4

Four ashing bars and red light Channel not found/ poor signal. Yellow light Indicates that the decoder has received a mail message. Red light Error indication.

Number with a green light Audio channel 4 selected.

Rotating bar Searching for service information.

-------

Horizontal lines Menu selected.

1 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

RF IN - for connection to terrestrial antenna RF OUT - for connection to television or VCR. Video - for connection to television or VCR Stereo Audio - for connection to TV, VCR or Hi-Fi. SPDIF - for connection to Home Theatre System. LNB IN - for connection to satellite dish. Mains Power Connector - for connection to mains power.

NOTE : Mono audio is selectable. Refer to the Audio Output section on page 40.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

REMOTE CONTROL
18 19 1 2 3

17 16

4 5

15 6

13

14

7 8

10

12

11

10

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

KEY TABLE
No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Key Power Shift ALT Language Exit Navigation Arrows VV+ Colour Keys Numeric Keys Help Menu Non SHIFT Functions Switches decoder on and off. Accesses the shift functions. Toggles between current and last viewed service/channel. Accesses the language menu. Exits menus, backs up applications. Navigates menus and on-screen applications. Decreases the volume level. Increases the volume level. For future use. Entering channel numbers and numerical values in setup menus. Accesses the help menu. Accesses the menus. When in menu, exits the menu and returns to normal viewing. Changes to the next channel in the channel list. Changes to the previous channel in the channel list. Veries and saves selection. Displays the i-plate and extended i-plate. Accesses the Electronic Programme Guide. When in TV service displays the list of TV bouquets. When in Music service, switches to TV service. Mutes the sound. Shortcut to favourite channels. Infocentral display screen. For future use. For future use. Accesses individual volume lock. Individual volume lock - no pick. SHIFT Functions
*Pressing SHIFT must precede each key press

For future use. Cancels SHIFT. Accesses subtitling menu. Accesses the Parental Guiance.

13 14 15 16 17 18

P+ POK i TV Guide TV

Initiate favourite channel scan. Initiate favourite channel scan. For future use. For future use. Shows the applicable interactive menu. Switch to audio services selection.

19

Mute

Access to individual volume lock. 11

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

MULTICHOICE DECODER CONNECTIONS

There are several ways of connecting the decoder to your existing entertainment system. The following, more common examples, enable you to view the MultiChoice services, record and playback from your VCR / DVD and listen to CD quality stereo sound on your Hi-Fi. Consult your local MultiChoice Agent, Branch or Accredited Installer for assistance in setting up an audio / video conguration best suited to your requirements.

SET-UP 1 : Decoder and TV

3 2 1

1.

Use the RCA to RCA cable provided to connect the Left and Right STEREO AUDIO sockets of the decoder to the Left and Right AUDIO IN sockets of the TV respectively. (Refer to 1 on the above illustration). Connect the VIDEO socket of the decoder to the VIDEO IN socket of the TV. (Refer to 2 on the above illustration). Connect the LNB IN socket of the decoder to the LNB on the satellite dish. (Refer to 3 on the above illustration). Connect the RF OUT of the decoder to the RF IN on the TV. (Refer to 4 on the above illustration). NB - RF cable NOT provided. Connect the RF OUT of the decoder to the RF IN on the TV. (Refer to 5 on the above illustration). MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

2. 3. 4. 5.

12

SET-UP 2 : Decoder, TV and VCR

4 1 6 2

1.

Use the RCA to RCA cable provided to connect the Left and Right STEREO AUDIO sockets of the decoder to the Left and Right AUDIO IN sockets of the TV respectively. (Refer to 1 on the above illustration). Connect the VIDEO socket of the decoder to the VIDEO IN socket of the TV. (Refer to 2 on the above illustration). Connect the LNB IN socket of the decoder to the LNB on the satellite dish. (Refer to 3 on the above illustration). Connect the RF OUT of the decoder to the RF IN on the VCR. (Refer to 4 on the above illustration). NB - RF cable NOT provided. Connect the RF OUT of the VCR to the RF IN on the TV. (Refer to 5 on the above illustration). Connect the RF IN of the decoder to the terrestrial antenna. (Refer to 6 on the above illustration).

2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

13

SET-UP 3 : Decoder, TV and Hi-Fi

This is the recommended set-up if you enjoy listening to DMX (your TV can be switched off to do this).

3 2

6 5 1

4 1. Use the RCA to RCA cable provided to connect the Left and Right STEREO AUDIO sockets of the decoder to the Left and Right AUDIO IN sockets of the Hi-Fi respectively. (Refer to 1 on the above illustration). Connect the VIDEO socket of the decoder to the VIDEO IN socket of the television . (Refer to 2 on the above illustration). Connect the LNB IN socket of the decoder to the LNB on the satellite dish. (Refer to 3 on the above illustration). Connect the RF OUT of the decoder to the RF IN on the TV. (Refer to 4 on the above illustration). NB - RF cable NOT provided. Connect the RF IN of the decoder to the terrestrial antenna. (Refer to 5 on the above illustration). Connect the SPDIF of the decoder to the Digital Audio on your hi- or home theatre system. (Refer to 6 on the above illustration).

2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

14

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

GETTING STARTED
On completion of the installation, switch on / plug in the MultiChoice decoder at the mains. The decoder will go through a power-up sequence, acquire all available channels and display Channel 1 of the DStv Bouquet. At this time, there will be an information banner on-screen indicating that you need to insert the MultiChoice Smartcard. INSERTING THE MULTICHOICE SMARTCARD Locate the slot at the bottom right-hand side of the front panel of the decoder. Hold the Smartcard horizontally, with the electronic chip (generally a small gold square) facing downwards. Insert the Smartcard into the slot until it comes to a rm stop.

STANDBY AND NORMAL VIEWING MODES The MultiChoice decoder does not have a mains power on/off switch but it can be switched to standby mode using the standby button on the remote control or the front panel. The standby mode is indicated by a 24 hour clock on the front panel display of the decoder. There is a negligible difference in power consumption between the standby and active modes. The MultiChoice decoder may be left on permanently without any detrimental affect.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

15

NOTE:

Unless absolutely necessary, do not change installation, connections or decoder setup, or retune a working system. If changes are made, record all the original settings.

SWITCHING THE DECODER ON AT THE MAINS When you switch the decoder on at the mains, it goes through a power-up sequence, then attempts to connect to a signal at the factory-set frequency. TUNING YOUR TV If your TV is not tuned to the decoder viewing channel, you will not be able to view the Digital Satellite channels. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Connect the Satellite Signal to the decoder. Refer to the section MultiChoice Decoder Connections on pages 12 through 14. Switch on the TV and select an unused channel to setup your decoder. This channel will now be used for the viewing of the Satellite services. The UHF tuning channel can be launched by press and hold the P+ and P- buttons on the decoder front panel for approximately 2 seconds, until UHF is displayed on the front panel display. Tune your TV set until you obtain the test pattern shown on the left. A channel number will be displayed on the decoder front panel display, e.g. 28. Once you have obtained this test pattern on your TV set, press the STANDBY button on the front panel or the OK button on the Remote. Check that there is no interference on the other channels your TV was tuned to. If you notice any interference, you need to change the UHF channel that is being used by the decoder. Repeat step 3. Follow the on-screen help text to change the UHF channel. Once you have changed the UHF channel, the TV screen will no longer display the test pattern and the channel number on the front panel display will be different. Repeat step 4. Once this test pattern is visible on the TV set again, follow the on-screen help text to save your UHF channel. You should now be able to view all the Satellite channels you subscribed to.

If interference is still present, it is recommended that good quality screened cables (preferably double screened) be used for interconnecting all other equipment to the decoder.

16

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

USING YOUR DECODER

THE INFORMATION PLATE (i-plate)
The i-plate is displayed each time you press i on the remote control unit, change channels or exit back to TV from a menu. If you require more information about a programme while the i-plate is displayed, press i again on the remote control unit. This will display extended information about the selected programme. To remove the i-plate, press EXIT or TV on the remote control unit. For your convenience the i-plate display period can be changed in the Information Display Period menu. Refer to page 38.

16

15

14

13 12

1
2 3 4 10 11

6 5 7

1 2
3 4 & 13 5 6 & 15 7 8 9 10 & 14 11 12 16

Channel Number Left and Right Arrows - Use the other channels and arrows for browsing through the i-plate of

Clock - Displays the current local time The start and end time of the current programme End time of the next programme Name of the current programme Name of the next programme Channel Name Parental Guidance Level of the next programme Parental Guidance Level of the current programme Current date, month and year A synopsis of the current programme Type of programme showing

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

17

NOW / NEXT
1. 2. 3. While viewing a programme, press i The i-plate will display information about both the current and next programme on the channel being viewed. To remove the i-plate, press EXIT.

EXTENDED INFORMATION
1. Should you require additional information about a programme, select the required programme on the i-plate and then press i . This will display the extended information screen which has more information about the selected programme. You can remove this screen by pressing EXIT. To remove the i-plate, press EXIT again.

2.

3. 4.

BROWSING
The i-plate allows you to browse information about programmes on other channels, without tuning away from the channel you are viewing. To do this follow the steps below: 1. 2. Press i to display the i-plate. Now using your or arrows, you can browse through the information on other channels without tuning to them. Example : in the picture on the left, the viewer is watching M-Net, but the i-plate shows information about programmes on BBC Prime. You can tune to the browsed channel (in this case, BBC Prime) by pressing OK. You can also set reminders while browsing (see pages 19 and 20 for more information on setting reminders). MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

18

REMINDERS
Note : Reminders can only be set on programmes that have not yet started. If you are using an interactive service, reminders will not be activated until you exit the interactive service.

NORMAL / BANNER REMINDERS

Setting a normal / banner reminder will result in a banner being displayed on-screen when the selected programme starts, irrespective of the channel youre viewing. Example : you can view a programme on M-Net and set a normal / banner reminder for the next programme on the Movie Magic channel. When the programme on Movie Magic starts, a banner will be displayed on-screen to remind you of your selection. Setting a Normal / Banner Reminder 1. 2. 3. To set a normal / banner reminder, press i to display the i-plate. Press the arrow to highlight the next programme. Press OK once to set a normal / banner reminder. A banner will appear on-screen conrming your selection. A small will also appear on the i-plate next to the selected programme, indicating that a normal / banner reminder has been set. When the selected programme starts, a banner will appear on-screen reminding you of your selection. You can press OK to tune to the programme or EXIT to remove the banner. If you do nothing, the banner will automatically be removed in 1 minute. To cancel a normal / banner reminder, press i to display the i-plate. A small will be displayed on the programme for which you have set the reminder. Press the arrow to highlight that programme. Press OK twice to cancel the normal / banner reminder. A banner will appear on-screen conrming that your reminder has been cancelled.

4.

Cancelling a Normal / Banner Reminder

1. 2. 3. 4.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

19

AUTOTUNE REMINDERS
Setting an autotune reminder will result in the decoder automatically tuning to the selected programme when it starts. Example : you can view a programme on M-Net and set an autotune reminder for the next programme on the Movie Magic channel. When the programme on Movie Magic starts, a banner will be displayed on-screen to remind you of your selection.

Setting an Autotune Banner Reminder

1. 2. 3.

4.

To set an autotune reminder, press i to display the i-plate. Press the arrow to highlight the next programme. Press OK twice to set an autotune reminder. A banner will appear on-screen conrming your selection. A small will also appear on the i-plate next to the selected programme, indicating that an autotune reminder has been set. When the selected programme starts, a banner will appear on-screen reminding you of your selection. The banner will countdown from 5 to 0. If you do nothing, the decoder will automatically tune to the selected programme. You can press EXIT to remove the banner and remain on the channel you are viewing.

Cancelling an Autotune Banner Reminder

1. 2. 3. 4.

To cancel an autotune reminder, press i to display the i-plate. A small will be displayed on the programme for which you have set the reminder. Press the arrow to highlight that programme. Press OK once to cancel the autotune reminder. A banner will appear on-screen conrming that your reminder has been cancelled.

20

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

CHANNEL GRID
The channel grid displays a list of all available channels in the DStv Bouquet and is a quick way to check whats showing on your favourite channel. Its also a great way to tune to a channel when youre not quite sure what number that channel is on. 1. To display the channel grid, press any of the arrow keys. (Please ensure that there is no other information on-screen, eg. the i-plate, bouquet options, etc. when you press the arrows.) Use the arrow keys to move the highlight around the grid. As you move the highlight, you will notice that the information on the i-plate (at the bottom of the screen) updates to reect the programming information on the selected channel. (see top picture). To tune to the selected channel, simply press OK. To view extended programme information, press i . (see bottom picture) To remove the channel grid, press EXIT. You can also set reminders from the channel grid. Press i and then the arrow to highlight the next programme. You can press OK once to set a normal / banner reminder or press OK twice to set an autotune reminder.

2.

3. 4.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

21

DStv GUIDE
This service is accessed by pressing TV GUIDE on your remote control. The DStv Guide has the following sections :

TV Guide

Interactive

This section contains all programming details across all DStv channels. Extra features include searches for specic types of programming, the ability to set reminders and a personal planner. About Us

This section has more information about DStv interactive services. You can also access interactive services from this menu.

Bouquets

Here you will nd information on the useful features that DStv offers. It also contains troubleshooting, contact information, competitions, special events and more...

This section contains programme information for channels available on other bouquets, including bouquets that require separate subscriptions.

22

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

VOLUME CONTROL
Volume Control Pressing V+ or V- will increase or decrease the volume respectively. When you change the volume, a volume bar displays on-screen indicating the volume level (see picture on the left). Note : The volume bar displays for 5 seconds. You can adjust this by changing the Information Display Period settings (see page 38).

Mute Pressing will mute the audio. When you mute the audio, a mute volume bar displays on-screen (see picture on the left). To restore audio, press again or press V+ or V-.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

23

LANGUAGE / SOUNDTRACK OPTIONS

1. 2. 3. Some programmes have multiple language / soundtrack options available (see pictures on the left). At anytime during a programme, you can choose to listen to a different language / soundtrack. To select a different language / soundtrack, press . The language / soundtrack menu will display on-screen, with the highlight on the current language / soundtrack. Use the arrows to select another language / soundtrack option and then press OK. The selected language / soundtrack will now be available. You can set the default language in the main menu. See page 36.

4. 5. Note :

SUBTITLES
Displaying Subtitles 1. 2. 3. Some programmes have subtitles available. At anytime during a programme, you can select to view the subtitles. To select subtitles, press . The subtitles / teletext menu will display on-screen. If there are subtitles available for the programme, use the arrows to select an option and press OK.

24

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

Removing Subtitles 1. 2. Press to display the subtitles / teletext menu. Select No subtitles and press OK.

TELETEXT
Some channels have teletext information available (for example CNN).

1. 2. 3. 4.

To nd out if a channel has teletext, press . The subtitles / teletext menu will display on-screen (see picture, top left) It there is no teletext available on that channel, the message No Teletext will display. If teletext is available on that channel, use the arrows to highlight the Teletext option and press OK. The teletext will display on-screen.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

25

USING THE TELETEXT SERVICE

1. 2. To page up or down through the text, use P+ and P-. To go to another page, enter the required page number using the numeric keys on the remote control. In the example on the left, we have entered in the number 500 in order to go directly to the World Sport page. If you enter an incorrect number, use the arrow to backspace and delete the incorrect number. To remove teletext, press EXIT. While teletext is active, you can press to make the screen transparent (ie. you will be able to view the video in the background).

3. Note :

26

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

DStv AUDIO BOUQUET

The DStv Audio Bouquet offers a selection of both local and international radio stations as well as DMX, which provides you with 40 stereo music channels. To access the DStv Audio Bouquet, follow the steps below:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Press . The screen on the top left will be displayed. Press again and the Bouquet menu options will display (see the centre picture). Using the arrows, select DStv Audio and press OK. You can then browse through the audio channels in the same way that you browse video channels. To return to normal video channels, press . The Bouquet menu option will display. Scroll to DStv and press OK to select.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

27

USING THE MENUS

THE MAIN MENU

To access the Main Menu, press MENU on your remote control. To navigate the main menu and sub-menus, take note of the points below : Use the arrow keys to move the highlight. To select an item, press OK. Pressing EXIT will always take you back one step. To change any values or settings, highlight the required option and press OK. The area where the value is displayed will become white. Use the arrows to change the values and then press OK again. Then move the highlight to Accept these settings and press OK to save your changes. Use the numeric keys (0-9) to type in numerical values (for example PIN codes, frequency values, etc.) To exit from the main menu or sub-menus, press .

28

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

INFORMATION
The information screen in the Main Menu provides technical information about your MultiChoice 990 decoder. This information will be relevant should you need to call the MultiChoice Call Centre, MultiChoice Agent or Branch.

1. 2. 3.

To access the information screen, press MENU. Select Information (option 1) and press OK to display the information screen (see picture on the left). To exit from this screen, press .

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

29

PARENTAL CONTROL
The MultiChoice 990 decoder has a Parental Control feature to restrict viewing of certain programmes. Access to this feature is controlled by the Parental Control PIN code. The default Parental Control PIN code is 1234. If you intend to use this feature, we recommend that you change the Parental Control PIN code and keep note of it in a secure place. Should you lose or forget your Parental Control PIN code, please call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre who will be able to reset the Parental Control PIN to the default 1234.

Note :

The MultiChoice Smartcard must be in the decoder in order for you to use or change the Parental Control PIN code.

ACCESSING THE PARENTAL CONTROL MENU

1. 2. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. Using the arrow keys, highlight Parental Control and press OK. 3. The Security Check screen is displayed (see picture, top left). 4. Enter the Parental Control PIN code using the numeric keys on the remote control. Note : if you enter the incorrect PIN code, the Security Check screen will be displayed again. 5. The Parental Control sub-menu will be displayed. This sub-menu has three options (see picture, bottom left) : 1. Blocking Options 2. Service Blocking 3. Change PIN These three options are explained in detail on the following pages. Note : If the PIN code is entered incorrectly 5 times, this feature will be locked. You will then need to call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre to reset the Parental Control PIN code.

30

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

CHANGING THE PARENTAL CONTROL PIN CODE

This features allows you to personalise the Parental Control PIN code. Note : The default Parental Control PIN code is 1234.

1.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

7. 8.

From the Parental Control sub-menu, select Change Pin and press OK. The Change PIN screen is displayed (see picture, top left). In the Old PIN code eld, enter the current Parental Control PIN code (see picture, top left). Once you have entered 4 digits, the highlight automatically moves to the next eld (New PIN code). In the New PIN code eld, enter your new Parental Control PIN code (see picture, middle). The code must be 4 digits. Once you have entered 4 digits, the high light automatically moves to the next eld (Re-enter new PIN code). In the Re-Enter new PIN code eld, enter your new Parental Control PIN code again. Once you have entered 4 digits, you will automatically be taken back to the Parental Control sub-menu. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT. To exit from all menus press MENU.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

31

PARENTAL GUIDANCE LEVELS

LEVEL
No Block Family

DESCRIPTION
None of the programmes will be censored (Parental Control is bypassed). A programme with this rating is considered suitable for the whole family. The Parental Control PIN code will be required for programmes rated PG 13 and higher. A programme with this rating is suitable for all ages up to and including 13-years-old. Parents should be present when viewing. The Parental Control PIN code will be required for programmes rated 16 and higher. A programme with this rating is only suitable for viewers who are 16 and older. The Parental Control PIN code will be required for programmes rated 18 and higher. A programme with this rating is only suitable for viewers who are 18 and older. The Parental Control PIN code will be required for programmes rated R18 and above. Only programmes rated higher than R18 will be blocked. All programmes will be blocked and can only be unblocked by entering the correct Parental Control PIN code.

PG 13

16

18

R18 Total Block

BLOCKING OPTIONS
Blocking Options allows you to select No Block, Total Block or Parental Guidance. No Block does not block any programme or service (Parental Control is bypassed). Total Block blocks all programmes and services. Note : If Total Block is selected, all programmes will be blocked and can only be unblocked by entering the correct Parental Control PIN code. Parental Guidance allows you to specify the level of viewing permitted. If this option is selected, you must also select a Parental Level (see above). The Parental Levels available are Family, PG 13, 16, 18 and R18.

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

When selecting Blocking Options from the Parental Control sub-menu, the screen on the left is displayed. Note : The default settings are No Block with a Parental Level of R18. 1. To change either the Blocking Options or the Parental Level, use the or arrow to highlight the required option and press OK. Use the and arrows to scroll through the options and press OK to make your selection. Once you have selected the required blocking option, move the highlight to Accept these settings and press OK to save your setttings. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT. To exit from all menus press MENU.

2. 3.

4.

SERVICE BLOCKING
Service Blocking differs from Blocking Options as this feature is used to block one or many channels, irrespective of the age restrictions on these channels. Example : If you do not want your children to watch Cartoon Network, you would select the Service Blocking option and select to have this channel blocked. This channel cannot be viewed unless the correct Parental Control PIN code is entered. If you unblock this channel by entering the Parental Control PIN code and then change channels, when you return to Cartoon Network, you will once again have to enter the Parental Control PIN code to unblock it.

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SELECTING CHANNELS TO BE BLOCKED

1. 2. 3. 4. From the Parental Control sub-menu, select Service Blocking and press OK. The Service Blocking Bouquet Selection screen is displayed (see picture, top left) Use the arrows to select the bouquet in which you want to block channels and press OK. The Service Blocking screen will be displayed.This screen lists all channels in the selected bouquet. The unblocked channels are listed on the left and blocked channels on the right. (see picture, middle left) Use the arrows to select a channel you would like to block and press the arrow to move the selected channel into the list of blocked channels on the right. Repeat this process for every channel you would like to block. Once you have completed blocking channels, press OK. A Please wait banner will appear on-screen while your request is processed (see picture, bottom left). Once processing is complete, you will return to the Service Blocking Bouquet Selection screen. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT twice. To exit from all menus press MENU.

5.

6. 7.

8. 9.

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

REMOVING CHANNELS FROM SERVICE BLOCKING

1. 2. 3. 4. From the Parental Control sub-menu, select Service Blocking and press OK. The Service Blocking Bouquet Selection screen is displayed. Use the arrows to select the bouquet in which you want to unblock channels and press OK. The Service Blocking screen will be displayed (see picture, top left). This screen lists all channels in the selected bouquet. The unblocked channels are listed on the left and blocked channels on the right. (see picture, top left) Use the arrows to select a channel you would like to unblock and press the arrow to move the selected channel into the list of unblocked channelson the left (see picture, middle left). Repeat this process for every channel you would like to unblock. Once you have completed unblocking channels, press OK. A Please wait banner will appear on-screen while your request is processed (see picture, bottom left). Once processing is complete, you will return to the Service Blocking Bouquet Selection screen. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT twice. To exit from all menus press MENU.

5.

6. 7.

8. 9.

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LANGUAGE OPTIONS
This feature allows you to specify the default language to be played out (if available).

1. 2. 3. 4.

5. 6. 7. 8. 9.

Press MENU to access the Main Menu. Using the arrow keys, highlight Language Options and press OK. The Language screen (see left) is displayed. To change either the Default Language or Alternate Language, highlight the required option using the arrow keys and press OK. The area where the language is displayed changes to white. Use the arrows to change the language. To conrm your setting, press OK. Move the highlight to Accept these settings and press OK to save your changes. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT. To exit from all menus press MENU.

MAIL MESSAGES
MultiChoice can send global messages over the air to decoders. When a message has been received on your decoder, a yellow light will appear on the front panel and an envelope symbol will be displayed on-screen when in normal viewing mode. If your decoder is in standby, the yellow light will be visible on the front panel.

To read the messages : 1. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. 2. Using the arrow keys, highlight Mail Messages and press OK. 3. The Mail Message screen (see left) is displayed indicating the message(s). 4. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT. 5. To exit from all menus press MENU. 6. The yellow light on the front panel will no longer be there, nor will the envelope symbol display on-screen.

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

COLOURS AND TRANSPARENCY

This feature allows you to customise the colours of the on-screen menus. In addition to customising the colours, you can also select a Transparent or Opaque setting. If you select the Transparent setting, the video can be seen behind the Menus, i-plate, Bouquets Menu and Subtitle / Teletext Menu. If you select the Opaque setting, the video is not visible. In both cases, audio is still available.

To access the Colours and Transparency feature : 1. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. 2. Using the arrow keys, highlight Colours and Transparency and press OK. The Colours and Transparency screen (see left) is displayed. 3. To select another colour screen or change transparency settings, highlight the required option and press OK. The relevant sub-menu is displayed. 4. Press OK to change this setting. The area displaying the required setting changes to white. Use the arrows to change the setting. 5. To conrm your setting, press OK. 6. Move the highlight to Accept these settings and press OK to save your changes. 7. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT. 8. To exit from all menus press MENU.

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INFORMATION DISPLAY PERIOD

This feature allows you to customise the display period for on-screen information (i-plate, volume bar, Subtitles / Teletext Menu, Bouquets Menu).

To change the Information Display Period : 1. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. 2. Using the arrow keys, highlight Information Display Period and press OK. The Information Display Period sub-menu is displayed (see picture). 3. To change any of the settings, highlight the required option and press OK. The area displaying the required setting changes to white. 4. Use the arrows to change the setting. To conrm your setting, press OK. 5. Move the highlight to Accept these settings and press OK to save your changes. 6. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT. 7. To exit from all menus press MENU.

ADVANCED OPTIONS
This is where the set-up of the decoder is done. We recommend that you DO NOT make changes to the settings in the rst three sub-menus of Advanced Options. The PIN code for Advanced Options is 9949. To access Advanced Options : 1. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. 2. Using the arrow keys, highlight Advanced Options and press OK. The Advanced Options Menu sub-menu is displayed (see picture). 3. Select the required option and press OK. The relevant sub-menu is displayed. 4. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT. 5. To exit from all menus press MENU.

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

TV INSTALLATION
In this menu, you can adjust the Audio Output (stereo or mono). The PIN code for TV INSTALLATION is 9949.

To access the TV Installation Menu : 1. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. 2. Using the arrow keys, highlight Advanced Options and press OK. The Advanced Options sub-menu is displayed. 3. Select TV Installation and press OK. 4. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT twice. 5. To exit from all menus press MENU.

AUDIO OUTPUT
This feature allows you to select between stereo audio output and mono audio output. Repeat steps 1 to 4 of TV Installation. 1. From the TV Installation sub-menu, select Audio Output and press OK. The Audio Output sub-menu is displayed with the audio output set to Stereo. To change this, press OK. 2. Use the arrows to change the Audio Output to Mono and press OK. 3. Move the highlight to Accept these settings and press OK to save your changes. 4. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT twice. 5. To exit from all menus press MENU. Note: Once Mono audio has been selected, either the red or white audio connectors can be used.

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LOCAL TIME
In this section you can set the time displayed on your decoder. If the time displayed on your decoder (either on the front panel or on the i-plate) does not correspond with local time, you can change it by following the steps below: 1. 2. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. Using the arrows, highlight Advanced Options and press OK. The Advanced Options sub-menu is displayed. Select Local Time and press OK. The Local Time sub-menu is displayed. Press OK again and using your arrows, set the clock to the correct time. Once you have entered the correct time, press OK again. Move the highlight to Accept these settings and press OK to save your changes. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT twice. To exit from all menus press MENU.

3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

SOFTWARE UPGRADE
This option allows you to upgrade the software in your decoder. It is advisable to check for software upgrades on a regular basis. To access this feature : 1. Press MENU to access the Main Menu. 2. Using the arrow keys, highlight Advanced Options and press OK. The Advanced Options sub-menu is displayed. 3. Select decoder Upgrade and press OK. The System Download Status screen is displayed (see picture). 4. If an upgrade is available, the estimated time that the download will take is displayed. 5. To commence the download, press OK. 6. If you want to upgrade your decoder software at a more convenient time, press EXIT to abort the download. 7. On completion of the upgrade, normal viewing will resume. 8. If no upgrade is available, a message Download not available will be displayed. 9. To return to the Main Menu, press EXIT twice. 10. To exit from all menus press MENU.

SOFTWARE DOWNLOADS
The software and intellectual property rights incorporated into the MultiChoice 990 decoder are owned by or licensed to MultiChoice. MultiChoice reserves the right to amend this software from time to time by means of software downloads.

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

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FACTORY RESET
This option will reset the MultiChoice decoder to the original factory default values. All changes made to the settings of the decoder will be lost. Settings such as tuning parameters, language options, etc. will all be reset. It is not recommended that you reset your decoder to factory defaults, unless requested to do so by a MultiChoice Call Centre, Agent, Branch or MultiChoice Accredited Installer. The Default values are as follows: LNB CONFIGURATION LNB is LNB Power LNB Mode LNB Hi Frequency LNB Lo Frequency Orbital Position NETWORK SET-UP Network Set-up 1 Home Signal Set-up Orbital Position Use NIT Frequency Symbol Rate Polarisation FEC Note : : : : : : : Enabled ON Dual Frequency 9750 10700 PAS7/10

: : : : : : :

Enabled PAS7/10 Yes 11594 27500 Vertical 5/6

Any additional networks that have been set up will be lost if the decoder is reset to the factory defaults. : : R18 No Block

PARENTAL CONTROL Parental Level Blocking Options

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING
SYMPTOM
The decoder does not display any message on the front panel or the decoder has no power. There is no picture.

SOLUTION
Check the main power cable and that it is plugged into a power socket. Check that the mains power is switched on. Ensure that the decoder is switched on (see above). Check that the correct channel has been selected on the TV. Check that you are not in audio services by pressing the TV button. See No Picture above. Check that the volume level of the TV and decoder are correct. Check that the TV or decoder are not in Mute mode. Point the remote control directly at the decoder front panel display. Check the batteries of the remote control and replace if required.

There is no sound.

Remote Control does not work.

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ON-SCREEN ERROR MESSAGES

No Signal/Searching for signal . Check the cable from the satellite dish. Check the position of the satellite dish, realign if necessary. Please contact your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Access to the service is on hold or loss of signal due to a technical problem. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Pre-entitlement period has expired. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Access to service denied due to loss of security code. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Access to service denied. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Smartcard not activated. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Access to service denied due to a software related error. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre. Call your nearest MultiChoice Call Centre.

If any other error messages. E04 Insert Smartcard. E05 Unknown card. E16 Service is currently scrambled.

E19 Service is currently scrambled. E30 Service is currently scrambled. E31 Service is currently scrambled. E32 Service is currently scrambled. E35 Service is currently scrambled. E38 Service currently not running. E42 Parental Lock active.

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

SPECIFICATIONS
CONDITIONAL ACCESS CA System SOFTWARE Loader Middleware EPG Menu/Graphic User Interface VIDEO DVB Standard Video Format Video RAM Host supplier audio/video Format conversion AUDIO DVB Standard PROCESSOR Host processor Flash Memory Ram EEPROM FRONT PANEL Display Status indicaors Standby switch TV/Radio switch Channel up/down Volume up/down Subscriber smart card REAR PANEL LNB Input (RF in) Base-band video Stereo audio SPDIF Coax RF Input and Output Power jack ACCESSORIES Fly lead Power Cord Remote Batteries Embedded Irdeto Secure over-the-air or serial Irdeto loader OpenTV Embedded surfer present/following/downloadable OpenTV EEPG application MCA surfer MPEG2 MP @ ML PAL Unied memory architecture, OSD support uses processor RAM I & P frame support Pan & scan, letterbox, pillar box is optional MPEG 2 layer 1 & 2 (Musicam), sampling frequencies 32, 44, 1.48kHz NEC EMMA 2 lite 225 MIPS 4 Mbytes 16 Mbytes SDRAM 16k Bytes 4 digit, 7 segment display 3 LEDs Hard reset when selected together withTV/Radio switch Hard reset when selected together with Standby switch Channel change Mutes audio when selected together ISO 7816 F-type - female no loop through CVBS (RCA) Variable volume (2 x RCA), mono software selectable PCM Stereo/Dolby Digital Adjustable UHF ch 21 - 69 Figure 8 socket, 85 to 288 VAC, 47-63-Hz, 0.3A 3 RCA to RCA, 1.8m Molded 2 pin Euro plug, 1.8m Standard interactive 2 AA size 45

MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder

CONTACT DETAILS
MANUFACTURERS WEBSITE: MultiChoice Africa (South Africa) Contact Centres: JOHANNESBURG DURBAN CAPE TOWN BLOEMFONTEIN PORT ELIZABETH PRETORIA MultiChoice Africa (Sub Sahara) Contact Centre: JOHANNESBURG: Website Details DStv MultiChoice Website Enquiries webmaster@multichoice.co.za MultiChoice Africa (South Africa) Enquiries enquiries@multichoice.co.za MultiChoice Africa (Sub Sahara) Enquiries africacallcentre@multichoice.co.za www.dstv.com www.multichoice.co.za + 27 (0) 11 289 2266 (011) 289 2222 (031) 710 2222 (021) 508 2222 (051) 503 2222 (041) 395 2222 (012) 422 2222 www.uec.co.za

MULTICHOICE DECODER RELATED SUGGESTIONS

Please mark clearly as F/A Decoder Engineering and forward any suggestions or enquiries to: e-mail: enquiries@multichoice.co.za or fax: +27 (0)11 289 3888

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MultiChoice 990 Digital Satellite Decoder